Log In
Description:
Thought to be created in the late 1940s by the Viet Minh, the tunnels were first constructed to be hiding places for arms and ammunition, but soon because hiding places for fighters, but were later extended in the 160's. Over 250km of tunnels wove their way under Cu Chi, allowing Viet Cong fighters to communicate and infiltrate the region.
The tunnels were situated over four different levels over 30m deep. Within the tunnels were passageways, living quarters, hospital, kitchens, classrooms, and even schools. People stayed in the tunnels for over weeks on end. To support the system, ventilation pipes, chimneys and waste channels had to be set up, as well as camouflaged entrances and booby traps. In all, during the course of the war, over 10,000 people were thought to have died in the tunnels.
There are several sites open for public. Though the tunnels have been modified, it should be noted that the tunnels are made for someone of an average size.
The tunnels were situated over four different levels over 30m deep. Within the tunnels were passageways, living quarters, hospital, kitchens, classrooms, and even schools. People stayed in the tunnels for over weeks on end. To support the system, ventilation pipes, chimneys and waste channels had to be set up, as well as camouflaged entrances and booby traps. In all, during the course of the war, over 10,000 people were thought to have died in the tunnels.
There are several sites open for public. Though the tunnels have been modified, it should be noted that the tunnels are made for someone of an average size.
Jen C. says...
Added Oct 31, 2008
The tunnels are a fascinating place to visit, really interesting historically, if perhaps a little biased. You can go through a 'tourist tunnel' which was built purely for tourists to get a feel for what it might have been like but it's considerably bigger than the actual tunnels (apparently they got sick of western tourists, who are considerably larger than the Vietnamese) getting stuck in the tunnels! When we were there there was also a firing range where you could shoot AK47s for a stupidly small sum of money.
Jieying L. says...
Added Jul 25, 2008
get to learn alot about how vietnam fought against their enemies in the past, loads of interesting self-invented tools and techniques using natural materials like twigs and wooden blocks and stuffs like that. climbing the tunnel is a must-do though its going to leave ur thighs aching for days..
Alex C. says...
Added Nov 17, 2008
Definitely a must-see if you're in Vietnam. These tunnels are amazing and a testament to the resilience of the Vietnamese. It's incredible that people lived in these tunnels. They are tiny, dark and claustrophobic. It's also hard to imagine how these were even built. They are vast! Very impressive!
Michèle M. says...
Added Oct 14, 2008
It is absolutely amazing to see, how the vietnamese lived so long in this tunnel system and how sophisticated it was built. make sure you climb in the spider hole and crawl through the tunnels. Just bring old and dirty clothes with you, since they will get really dirty in the tunnels.
Stephanie M. says...
Added Jul 31, 2008
Absolutely amazing to see how the Vietnamese survived during the war in this underground "village" of tunnels. Great look back into history and learning experience. If I remember correctly, I think you can pay $1 US to fire off a round from a machine gun from back in the day.
Michelle B. says...
Added Aug 31, 2008
The tunnels are a must to try out when you go to Cu Chi. Make sure you go with a major touring company otherwise you will get charged double or triple the price with individuals offering to take you there themselves.
Anne G. says...
Added Oct 31, 2008
Fascinating. Crazy to think how people lived and functioned here.
Gregg F. says...
Added Jun 6, 2008
Bad memories, excellent lesson for us, "humans"
Kristof V. says...
Added Jun 13, 2008
These tunnels are fuckin auwsome!!!!
